I READ with interest and a great deal of disappointment the letter (November 15) which referred to the unfortunate fire at the 1st Tavistock Scout Group Headquarters, Pixon Lane, Friday November 1.
I too would like to clarify the situation. Tavistock fire crews were called to the Scout hut just after 9am. The fire was dealt with as normal in a professional way as reported in your issue November 8. The incident was reported to the Times the following Wednesday. From time to time as I am only a firefighter the terminology may not be absolutely correct, for example timber props rather than pioneering poles. I apologise for this error. The Fire Service were called again to the hut the following day, 23 hours later, to deal with a fire in the roof area.
I am very disappointed Mr Clough feels he has to report that the fire was still alight on this occasion when the investigations are not complete.
Station personnel are honourable people, doing a job of work to protect the local community to the best of their ability.
Over the years Tavistock Station, along with many others up and down the country, help local organisations with time, advice and providing crews and appliances for visits, fetes etc. This is done in their own time with no charge. We have also helped out the Scout movement here in Tavistock on many occasions over the years.
All station personnel are most disappointed with Mr Clough's comments.
Chris Neale, Station officer Station Commander
57 Tavistock